Which soccer players have collapsed on the pitch?

Instances of soccer players collapsing on the pitch have, at times, shocked and deeply concerned both fans and the broader sports community. One of the most poignant incidents occurred in 2012 when Fabrice Muamba, a midfielder for Bolton Wanderers, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during an FA Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur. The stadium fell silent as medical professionals rushed to Muamba's aid, performing CPR on the field. Miraculously, Muamba survived, but the incident drew attention to the importance of cardiac health in athletes and the necessity of immediate medical intervention.

Another tragic incident unfolded during the 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup when Marc-Vivien Foé, a talented Cameroonian footballer playing for Manchester City, collapsed during a match between Cameroon and Colombia. Foé's collapse was attributed to a heart attack, and despite efforts to revive him on the pitch, he passed away. This devastating event underscored the fragility of life and prompted discussions around more stringent health screenings for professional athletes.

In 2018, during a match between Mexico and Trinidad and Tobago, Hirving Lozano fell to the ground after a severe head collision with an opponent. The distressing scene led to immediate medical attention as Lozano was stretchered off the field. Fortunately, he recovered from the incident, highlighting the risks and physical toll that soccer can take on players.

However, one of the most harrowing incidents occurred during the Euro 2020 tournament when Christian Eriksen, a Danish midfielder, collapsed suddenly during a match against Finland. Eriksen's cardiac arrest on the field left players and fans in shock. The quick response from medical staff, along with the unity and support shown by both teams and fans in the stadium, ultimately saved Eriksen's life. This incident prompted discussions on the significance of emergency preparedness and the importance of defibrillators in sports venues.